OPERATIONS MANUAL 2018

Transcription

1 Tuxford Road Darlton Newark Nottinghamshire NG22 OTQ Club mobile OPERATIONS MANUAL 2018 DO NOT REMOVE FROM LAUNCH BUS 1 of 43

2 NO CHANGES MAY BE MADE TO THESE PROCEDURES WITHOUT THE PERMISSION OF THE C.F.I., SAFETY OFFICER, TECHNICAL OFFICER AND CLUB CHAIRMAN EXCEPT THAT, DUE TO SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES ARISING ON ANY PARTICULAR DAY, THE DUTY INSTRUCTOR MAY, FOR SAFETY REASONS, ON THAT DAY, OR PERIODS OF THAT DAY, DEVIATE FROM THE OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS IN THESE PROCEDURES. 2 of 43

3 IT IS A CONDITION OF MEMBERSHIP OF THE DARLTON GLIDING CLUB THAT ALL MEMBERS SIGN BELOW TO SIGNIFY ACCEPTANCE OF THE RULES AND PROCEDURES IN THIS OPERATIONS MANUAL. 3 of 43

4 IT IS A CONDITION OF MEMBERSHIP OF THE DARLTON GLIDING CLUB THAT ALL MEMBERS SIGN BELOW TO SIGNIFY ACCEPTANCE OF THE RULES AND PROCEDURES IN THIS OPERATIONS MANUAL. THIS OPERATIONS MANUAL IS PRODUCED TO COMPLY, EXCEPT WHERE LOCAL REQUIREMENTS TAKE PRECEDENCE, WITH THE BRITISH GLIDING ASSOCIATION OPERATIONAL AND WINCH OPERATOR MANUALS. 4 of 43

5 Contents CLUB OFFICIALS... 9 CLUB COMMITTEE... 9 INSTRUCTOR TEAM SUBSCRIPTIONS & FEES APRIL 2018 MARCH MEMBERSHIP Joining the club Visiting pilots Private gliders Glider trailers Private vehicles Hire of club gliders AIRFIELD OPERATIONS Responsibilities Chief Flying Instructor Duty Instructor Duty Pilot / BI Basic Instructor Winch Driver Safety Officer Log Keeper All Members Junior Members Discretionary Members Alcohol SUPERVISION AND CONTROL OF VISITORS GENERAL POLICY FOR CHILD PROTECTION AT THE CLUB AIRFIELD AND LAUNCH POINT ORGANISATION Winch Placement Concurrent Cable Launching and Powered Aircraft Operation Procedure Winch Launch Procedure Winch Launch emergencies Cable break Glider drifting sideways Failure of cable to release of 43

6 Cable Retrieve Vehicle Operations Emergency Rescue Equipment Aerotow Launch Procedure GROUND HANDLING OF GLIDERS Packing / Unpacking the Hangar Glider Parking Light constructed gliders (Normally all wood and fabric aircraft) Heavy constructed gliders (Normally glass aircraft) Ground Towing and Glider Retrieve DAILY INSPECTIONS Gliders Rigging Vehicles Winch FLYING REGULATIONS Approval to fly Currency Check flights Mutual Flying Flying List Allocation of club training aircraft Soaring st Solo Flight Type conversions CIRCUITS & CIRCUIT RESTRICTIONS General Approach and landing Hangar Flights Competition Finishes Limitations and Characteristics of Gliders Parachutes Audible Variometers GPS and other equipment Other Rules of the Air of 43

7 CROSS COUNTRY FLYING Preparation Height Restrictions Field Landings Aerotow Retrieves AEROBATICS Policy Training Authorisation Excessive G Readings Height Side slipping POWERED AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS Supervision and Authorisation on Club Gliding days Supervision and Authorisation Non Gliding days Weather Limitations Start, Taxy and Takeoff Departure Arrival Power Circuits EMERGENCY PROCEDURES INCIDENT AND ACCIDENT REPORTING Incidents Accidents Recording of Accidents / Incidents Fatal Accident on, or near, the airfield Serious Accident on, or near, the airfield Missing Aircraft Aircraft Reported Crashed Serious Accident not involving aircraft First Aid Equipment Safe Fuel Storage FIRE PRECAUTION of 43

8 Appendix A Site map Appendix B Winch Launch Procedures Appendix C Aerotow Launch Procedures Appendix D Annual Check form Appendix E Aerotow Check form 8 of 43

9 CLUB OFFICIALS Role Name Contact number Chief Flying Instructor ALAN DOCHERTY Club Chairman ROBERT GRANT Safety Officer JOSH MILNER Deputy Chief Flying Instructor BARRY PATTERSON O Club Secretary JOHN SALVIN Club Treasurer CHRISTOPHER GADSBY Technical Officer TIMOTHY SHARPE Child Protection Officer CRAIG HOBSON Deputy CPO JULIE STARLING Tug Master Winch Master Deputy Winch Master JOHN PASKINS STEVE PAYNE MELVIN BALOUGH CLUB COMMITTEE ROBERT GRANT JOHN SALVIN ALAN DOCHERTY TIMOTHY SHARPE CHRISTOPHER GADSBY JOSH MILNER MARTYN COBHAM JOHN MADDISON MIKE BROWN 9 of 43

10 INSTRUCTOR TEAM Full Rated Instructors ALAN DOCHERTY DAVID FOSTER JOHN MADDISON BARRY PATTERSON RICHARD WALKER KEITH DYKES ROBERT GRANT JOHN PASKINS ROGER STARLING JOHN BRADBURY Assistant Instructors JOHN HARRISON CRAIG HOBSON MICHAEL NOON ANDREW LUCAS ROBERT STARLING Basic Instructors DAVID CARTER CHRISTOPHER GADSBY AMY SENTANCE TIMOTHY SHARPE ROBERT TATLOW SIMON BROWN 10 of 43

11 SUBSCRIPTIONS & FEES APRIL 2018 MARCH 2019 ALL SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE DUE AT THE BEGINNING OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR APRIL 1st AND MUST BE PAID BY APRIL 1st AT THE LATEST. ANY PERSON WHO HAS NOT PAID ALL THEIR FEES BY THIS DATE WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO FLY UNTIL ALL FEES ARE PAID MEMBERSHIP FEES FULL FLYING 1 STUDENT & JUNIOR COUNTRY MEMBERSHIP Plus BGA Levy Plus BGA Levy DISCRETIONARY Plus BGA Levy GUEST OF MEMBER (Launch & soaring at club rates) BGA Levy FLYING FEES WINCH LAUNCH 7.50 STUDENT & JUNIOR WINCH LAUNCH 4.50 (Winch Launch and soaring fee for cable breaks below 700 ft shall not be charged) AEROTOW LAUNCH UP TO 2000ft ( 3.50 for each additional 500ft) SOARING per min. all Club Aircraft 0.30 STUDENT & JUNIOR per min WINCH LAUNCH before 10.00am 4.00 STUDENT & JUNIOR 2.00 (No soaring fee is payable before 10.00am.) FALKE Flying Club members with instructor per Hour TRIAL LESSON 6 (1 launch) TRIAL LESSON VOUCHER pre-paid 6 (1 launch) SILVER COURSE 6 (3 launches) ((All above include one month s membership from date of flight. Soaring flight of over 20 minutes counts as 2 flights) FIXED PRICE TO SOLO (Limited to 1 years membership, and includes winch launches & soaring fees) TRAILER PARKING FEE per year HIRE OF CLUB AIRCRAFT per day Electric hook up Oct Mar 5.00 per day 1.50 per day Apr-Sept Workshop hire (after initial free week) 2.00 per day RECIPROCAL MEMBERSHIP For BGA affiliated clubs membership is charged at rates equal to those charged by the visiting club at their own site. DGC has, by agreement, zero reciprocal membership charge with most clubs in the region. WITH THE AUTHORITY OF THE DUTY INSTRUCTOR THERE IS A PAYMENT LIMIT OF TWO HOURS FOR MEMBERS PRE- DECLARING AND ATTEMPTING A BADGE FLIGHT IN CLUB GLIDERS OR CROSS COUNTY TRAINING FLIGHTS IN THE CLUB JANUS. There are only 3 membership categories which are full voting members of the club, 1, 2, and 3 below 1. Full Flying Membership 2. Student/Junior - A student is defined as in full time education less than 25 years of age. Juniors under Country members - Members who live outside a 50,mile radius of the club site 4. Discretionary - This category can be offered to any club member who the committee feels has circumstances which merit support. 5. Guest membership (Full members Guest) Includes 2 weeks membership. 6. Temporary membership (Trail lessons etc) one month membership from date of flight. BGA vouchers are three months membership The club also participates in the CASC affordable gliding scheme. Further details about this scheme can be obtained by contacting the club secretary. 11 of 43

12 MEMBERSHIP Joining the club Any person wishing to fly at DGC must be a member of the Club and must therefore have completed a temporary membership or full membership form. All memberships (except fixed price to solo) become due on 1 st April each year. Visiting pilots Visiting pilots must fill in a temporary membership form, read and sign the visiting pilot notes before flying. To fly solo they must also produce evidence of current medical and flying currency. Private gliders The CFI is responsible for all flying at the DGC and must be consulted by all pilots prior to purchasing shares in any glider. Pilots wishing to bring a new glider onto the site must first obtain permission from the CFI. The Committees approval is also required for parking space in the trailer park. Glider trailers Glider trailers are to be kept in a clean and tidy condition and only parked in the designated places. See appendix (A) It is the responsibility of the owner to keep the grass around and underneath the trailer in a neat and short condition. Slabs may be laid for wheel rests. In very wet conditions, vehicles should not be taken onto the grass areas between the hanger and the trailers. Private vehicles Any private vehicle taken on to the airfield or parked on DGC premises will be entirely at the owner's risk. In general vehicles should be parked in the car park area and NOT left on the grass or at the launch point. NOTE: Your insurance may not cover you whilst on an airfield. 12 of 43

13 Hire of club gliders It is possible to hire club gliders, at a rate fixed by the committee, when not required at Darlton. The CFI's permission must be obtained prior to taking the glider. Included in the conditions of hire are: In the event of damage or loss the hirer is responsible for the insurance excess and the overseeing of a speedy repair. (Current Excess is 300 for Discus, Janus & Puchacz) It is the hirer s responsibility to ensure that the trailer is in full roadworthy condition. If the glider is normally rigged, it is the hirers responsibility to organise the de-rigging and rigging of the glider ready for use by the next flying day at DGC. If parachutes are allowed to become damp or damaged the hirer will stand the cost of repacking The club Janus, Puchacz and Discus have full comprehensive insurance. The club K8 and K13 are only insured for third party losses and whilst being transported in their trailer. The trailer must be in a roadworthy condition for such cover to be effective. When club aircraft are used for club organised trips the members will be charged the normal DGC soaring fees unless different fees are agreed by the committee. Respective members must pay all other costs incurred ie. The launch fees, hangarage, temporary membership etc.. All members are eligible and are encouraged to attend club visits and organised trips. 13 of 43

14 AIRFIELD OPERATIONS Responsibilities Chief Flying Instructor DARLTON GLIDING CLUB OPERATIONS MANUAL 2018 Overall responsibility for all matters concerning flying operations from Darlton. No flying can take place without his authority and any decision in flying matters is final The CFI is to deal with breaches of flying discipline. Measures may include: 1. Grounding, reversion or cancellation of type qualifications 2. Restrictions on solo or Cross Country flying 3. Referral for disciplinary hearing by the committee Redress Any member who considers that he/she has been unfairly treated by an internal disciplinary action will have the right of redress to the Club Chairman. If this does not result in a mutually satisfactory solution, the member shall have the right of a hearing by the committee. Duty Instructor Whenever gliding takes place at Darlton a Member Instructor with a minimum of Assistant Rating with an airfield supervision rating signed in his log book must be present. Check suitability of weather to ensure safe flying can take place. In particular to ensure there is no possibility of cables drifting onto the A6075. He/She must: Notify RAF Waddington ATC when flying is to begin and again when flying has finished for the day. Telephone Primary Telephone Secondary Operations Waddington should be able to contact us on the club mobile telephone If this mobile is not available then Waddington are to be given an alternative number for the day. Obtain weather forecast. Ensure current NOTAMs are available and Daily Nav. Warnings are checked Hold a briefing session before flying commences using Briefing sheet Appendix B Ensure all club aircraft have been satisfactorily Daily Inspected DI d Ensure all vehicles have been Daily Inspected before use. Ensure information is available to allow any latecomers to self-brief Organise unpacking and repacking of hangar Organise layout of airfield, placement of winch and launch point with Duty Pilot / BI Ensure a listening watch on glider frequency is maintained at the launch point. Be responsible for all flying activities throughout the day Responsible for any disciplinary matter and, in the event, to contact CFI at earliest opportunity Responsible for contacting authorities in event of accident It is the responsibility of the Duty Instructor to ensure that action is to be taken if there is good cause to believe that an aircraft is missing. 14 of 43

15 Ensure that the first flight of the day when flown in a club aircraft is carried out by an instructor or a pilot with Silver C and the first flight on any club glider after assembly or adjustment is also flown by an instructor or a pilot with Silver C. At the end of day check hangars are locked and check all the facilities are secure before departing the airfield. (If members are still using facilities hand over responsibility to one of them and note it on daily log) Duty Pilot / BI Organise Daily Inspection of gliders and ensure parachutes are available in all gliders. Ensure Safety equipment is in position at the launch point before flying takes place. Ensure serviceable radios are available. Organise launch point Responsible for organising the flying list to schedule Instructional & Trial Flights, in particular any visitors who present vouchers. These visitors should normally be given precedence over drop in visitors when organising flights Ensure crews are ready for launching when at the front of the grid Allocate log keepers Responsible for collection and filing of all log sheets and fees at end of day Responsible for contacting authorities in event of accident if Duty Instructor not available Ensure the airfield is cleared at the end of flying of all tyres etc. Basic Instructor Assist the duty instructor and duty pilot in organising efficient ground operations Fly guests and trial flights under the supervision of Full Rated instructor or an Assistant Rated instructor with Airfield Supervision Rating signed in his logbook. Give basic instruction under the supervision of the duty instructor Look after visitors onto and off the airfield Double as a duty pilot if one is not appointed Winch Driver Ensure winch has been Daily Inspected before use and set up on airfield. Ensure cables have been inspected before first flight of day and sign the DI Book after completion of the cable daily inspection. Check radio and light communication. Ensure the cutting gear is tested as required and sign the DI Book accordingly Complying with regulations in BGA Winch Manual and Local Winch Regulations in this manual React promptly to all signals given by both launch point and glider. Delay launching if any obstruction or danger to flight is apparent. If in doubt STOP Deal expediently with any breakdown. Ensure that any relief driver he may be followed by is fully aware of the current conditions. Ensure that when any work is carried out at the winch the stop light is turned on and is only turned off when everyone is clear. Fully communicate with the launch point to ensure speedy resolution of problems. 15 of 43

16 Safety Officer The club safety officer may take any action necessary to ensure the safety of both personnel and aircraft. Any breach of safety regulations must be reported to the CFI. The safety officer will be responsible for the packing of club parachutes, emergency trailer and monitoring of club incident reporting system. Log Keeper Maintaining log sheets is a legal requirement and these must be completed in a neat and legible manner. At no time during flying should the post be left unattended. Ensure all information is fully completed before handing log over to another member. Winch launches to be recorded on white log sheets; aerotow launches to be recorded on yellow log sheets. Release height of Aerotow to be recorded after confirmation from tug pilot. All Members Must act in a safe manner at all times, with respect to other members of the club and the general public. To follow the code of conduct laid down in this manual and the Laws and Rules for Glider Pilots. Members must ensure that their gliding log book is: o Kept up to date and record accurate flight times in line with the club log. o Available at all times when on site for inspection by the duty instructor. o Is signed by the Instructor after any training, check or currency flight. Members must not fly as P1 in an aircraft for which they have not been cleared. Clearance shall be in the form of a signed entry in their logbook by the CFI or other full cat instructor. Note: - Any authorisation or currency checks are only valid after the checking instructor has signed your logbook. Ensure that the premises are kept clean and tidy at all times Members wishing to donate items to the club must receive committee approval beforehand. Junior Members A Junior member is a class of membership available to a person under the age of 21. All applications under the age of 18 require a signature of their parent or legal guardian and the signature endorsed by a mature witness. Junior members may only participate in club activities under the supervision or guidance of a full member. Junior members are expected to participate in the normal work and duties associated with club activities. Discretionary Members A discretionary member is a class of membership awarded by the committee. 16 of 43

17 Such members do not hold the privileges of full members such as voting rights. Special Needs members are automatically discretionary members. Special Needs members may only participate in club activities under the supervision or guidance of a full member. Special Needs members may not prepare, clean, service or operate any item of club equipment, plant or machinery unless specifically directed or approved by a full member. In the event of a Special Needs member being the first to arrive on site on a flying day the hangar must not be opened for any purpose until a full member arrives to take responsibility. On non-flying days a Special Needs member must not enter the club premises or airfield unless accompanied by a full member. Discretionary members where possible are expected to participate in the normal work and duties associated with club activities. Alcohol Drink and flying do not mix. No member shall take part in flying activities if they have consumed alcohol within 8 hours. SUPERVISION AND CONTROL OF VISITORS Guests and Invitees Unless escorted by a club member they must not be allowed to enter the hangar or workshop areas They should not be allowed to take their own cars onto the airfield. The Duty Pilot / BI should take guests to the launch point bus if it is at the far end of the airfield. They should, if possible, be escorted to the launch point bus by a member, or directed around the edge of the runway with clear instructions about possible approaching gliders. When leaving the launch point similar procedures should be followed. Unless escorted by a member guests they must keep within the safety area around the control bus. Visitors are potential members and should be treated with respect and understanding (they will not understand operation requirements and terminology) Keep them and others safe but make their introduction to gliding enjoyable and memorable in the right way. 17 of 43

18 GENERAL POLICY FOR CHILD PROTECTION AT THE CLUB Reference: BGA Child Protection Policy & Procedures (Available in the Club Office) The BGA`s guidelines on the recommended application of the Children s Act 1998 have been distilled from 262 A4 pages of script within the Act.The issue is, therefore, rather complicated but the salient points applicable to the Club are relatively simple and can be briefly listed as follows for every member to consider, along with the BGA guidelines, and apply. The BGA policy statement applies to the DGC. The Children s Act applies to all persons less than 18 years of age including members, member s children and members of the public. All Club members have a responsibility to consider the implications of the Act on a day to-day basis and act accordingly. Members must be constantly aware of any circumstances that could result in a young person being placed in a potentially risky personal situation. Common sense is a good guide on this sensitive aspect. Members must be aware of the signs of child abuse, however unpalatable, detailed on Page 18 of the BGA Policy and Procedures document. Members should report, in confidence, any circumstances they consider suspicious to a Club Child Protection Co-ordinator or a member of the Management Committee for investigation. The Club Child Protection Co-ordinators are: CPO Lead Officer Craig Hobson Tel: CPO Deputy Officer Julie Starling Tel: Member s compliance with the Club policy is incorporated into the Club Operations Procedures and full details are posted on the notice boards under Club Child Protection Policy. Finally, this is a sensitive issue that could easily be ignored due to its nature or assumed it was not necessary in our Club. However, experience in society generally should persuade all members that the potential problem has to be recognised, and accepted, with a conscious effort on every member s part to ensure it does not manifest itself at the Darlton Gliding Club. 18 of 43

19 AIRFIELD AND LAUNCH POINT ORGANISATION The airfield must be left in a tidy fashion after flying has ceased with no tyres etc. left out The launch point will be organised as directed by the Duty Instructor. The Duty Pilot / BI will run the launch point with the full backing of the Duty Instructor. Before flying takes place all safety equipment, ground radios, log sheets, etc. must be at the launch point. The safety trailer is to be parked in front of the bus at an angle so it can be accessed with ease. The weights trailer is to be parked at the rear of the bus leaving space between it and the bus for parking of club vehicles. The log keeper/signaller should have a clear view of the glider being launched. This is best achieved by having the launch vehicle face straight down the field placing the wing disc a glider length forward of the launch vehicle. A single row launching system is preferred, however, at any one time there should be a maximum of six gliders on the launch grid, in a maximum of two rows. The launch grid must be organised such that the launch cable must have the minimum amount of bow in it when launching gliders from either row by keeping these rows as close together as possible. To enable this it is allowable to interlock opposite wings. Where two rows of gliders are used the outer row will normally be for club two seater aircraft. When towing out two cables the retrieve must drive a straight line from winch to drop off point. NO LAUNCH IS TO BE TAKEN ON BOWED CABLES. The Winch Cables must be dropped approximately 1.5 metres clear of the up wind wing of the glider on the launch grid. At no time should the retrieve vehicle be driven towards any part of a glider. All aircraft must be parked off line and only pulled on to the launch grid when permitted by the Duty Pilot. Any glider at the front of the launch grid not ready to be launched when a cable is available will be pulled off line and requires the Duty Pilot's authority before joining the back of the launch grid. At the Duty Pilot's discretion, pilots experiencing cable breaks may be given priority when they rejoin the launch grid. In order to reduce possible damage to cables no vehicles or gliders should cross over the launch cables. Winch Placement The winch must always be placed so that, in the event of an emergency at the extremity of the launch i.e. with the maximum amount of cable out, the falling cable will not drift onto the A6075. If, due to a cross wind component, this cannot be achieved, winch launching must not take place. The wind strength and direction should be monitored by the duty crew (instructors and winch operators) during the day and if changes prevent safe cable recovery, winch launching must be stopped. When the wind direction is down the strip the winch should be placed on the North side of the field. The winch must also be placed to allow room for the retrieve vehicle to drive behind it, 19 of 43

20 in order to collect the cables. Warning signs must be put around the winch when operating on Runway 05. Concurrent Cable Launching and Powered Aircraft Operation Procedure No aircraft may take off if launch cables are across any part of the take of run. Powered aircraft must have the duty instructors permission before taking off. IN NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD POWERED AIRCRAFT CROSS OVER THE LAUNCH CABLES. Winch Launch Procedure Only solo pilots who have been trained and assessed competent as winch drivers are to be left to drive the winch unsupervised. All winch drivers will be examined from time to time to ensure uniformity of operation. A record of trained winch drivers is to be maintained by the winch master. It must be assumed cables are live at all times and should be treated accordingly. During launching the second cable should not be picked up until it is established that the first cable has been wound in and the stoplight at the winch has been switched off. Launching is only to take place when the duty pilot or qualified nominee wearing the florescent coat is in position to clearly observe all elements of the launch. Three people are required for each launch; Wingtip runner, Launch Marshal and Log Keeper. The tasks should be performed by trained personnel or personnel under direct training by suitably qualified members, however the Launch Marshal must be a Solo Pilot. The typical sequence of events is as follows. The down wind cable should normally be used first The cable & chute should be taken level to the down wind wing tip and the shock rope laid out to the glider. The log keeper must ensure the winch driver is aware of the type of glider being launched, number of pilots and if the glider has water ballast. See launch procedure App F. Wingtip runner is normally to HOLD THE DOWNWIND WINGTIP with the gliders wings level. Launch Marshal, after selecting and checking for wear the correct colour coded weak link, establishes with the pilot all checks are completed by asking, Canopy and brakes closed and locked and only after receiving confirmation from the pilot, attaches the cable. They then ensure rings are free and communicate with the pilot that cable on and secure, rings are free. Pilots are to keep their left hand on the cable release once the cable has been accepted. Once attached the rope forward of the weak link should be pulled and laid out flat. It is ultimately the pilot s responsibility to ensure they are ready to launch when accepting the cable. On gliders with a wheel break on the control stick i.e. Janus & Discus the pilot should hold the break on until the all out is given and the glider starts to move. Launch Marshal then establishes that there are no potential conflicts with the launch and the immediate vicinity is clear to launch the glider. They then verbally communicate to all that all is clear above and behind before giving the up slack signal to the log keeper and verbally communicates to all Take up slack. During this phase the area should be constantly scanned for any potential problems and the launch STOPPED if any are identified When all the slack has been removed from the cable signals to the log keeper all out and verbally communicates to all all out 20 of 43

21 The log keeper, or other nominated, trained member, will relay the signals to the winch driver using the signalling lights or the bat method. The Radio is the backup stop signal. After launch the Launch Marshal shall watch the launch up to a successful recovery of the cable. In the event of a cable break or weak link failure the position of the falling strop can be noted for retrieve. At any stage during the launch any person can signal a STOP if any problem is identified. On no account shall the winch cables be moved at the launch point if the winch has the stop light switched on. Winch Launch emergencies Cable break The winch brakes should be applied immediately and the cable allowed to drop. A cable should not be wound in along the runway if the runway is needed for the glider that has just broken the cable to land on. Although individual circumstances may dictate, in general the broken cable should be repaired in a prompt a manner as possible, where the break occurs removing any other knots within 5 metre of the break. The cable should then be wound back on the winch drum checking for kinks as it is wound in. The cable should then be towed out as normal when required. Glider drifting sideways If the glider being launched drifts sideways so as to make safe recovery of the cable in an emergency difficult, i.e. cable break, etc., the launch should proceed until the winch operator is confident the cable can be recovered safely before terminating the launch. If, at any time, the cable is falling over or near to the boundary fence of the airfield, the winch brake should be applied before the cable touches the ground. If the cable is near to the A6075 the retrieve vehicle must then ensure the cable is clear and safe before it is wound in. No more launches should take place until the duty instructor has been informed and authorises the resumption of launching. Failure of cable to release Because of the close proximity of major roads it is imperative the following sequence of events is adhered to in the event of a cable failing to release; At the top of the launch the winch driver will cut the power, indicating to the pilot the launch is over. Should the glider then fail to release the winch driver should apply the brakes. This will allow the pilot to attempt to enforce a back release of the cable, or breaking of the weak link, by applying a shock load to the cable. The pilot should keep the cable release open. If this manoeuvre is unsuccessful, and the glider has passed significantly beyond the normal release point, the winch driver should use the cable guillotines. Pilots, after having a failure of the cable to release, must assume the cable has been cut and still attached to the glider. To prevent the cable being dragged across a major road they must then adhere to the following circuits; 21 of 43

22 Make a turn away from the A6075 and endeavour to keep the glider within the airfield boundary. On no account should the glider be allowed to over fly the A6075, launch point, Winch, Clubhouse, Hanger, Glider Park or power cables. The glider should be landed towards the centre of the airfield. Remember at all times the cable release should be kept in the open position. Cable Retrieve Vehicle Operations The retrieve driver must be a member of the club and be trained by an experienced solo pilot. If whilst towing out the cables the stoplight comes on at either the winch or the launch point then the retrieve vehicle must stop. If he is given an up slack signal from the winch he may proceed. If this is not forthcoming and when it is safe to do so (runway not required by gliders) he must remove the cables and return to the winch. The same procedure is to be followed if a towing out link breaks. The retrieve vehicle must be driven with care at all times, avoiding gliders, people and other vehicles. After pulling out the cables it is the driver s responsibility to ensure they are detached from the vehicle before moving off. After dropping off cables the retrieve vehicle is to return to the winch as soon as possible in order to assist the winch operations. Before crossing the runway or airfield ensure no gliders are on approach. Emergency Rescue Equipment A serviceable rescue kit in a trailer is to be maintained by the safety officer and be stationed at the launch point in front of the bus whilst flying takes place. 22 of 43

23 Aerotow Launch Procedure DARLTON GLIDING CLUB OPERATIONS MANUAL 2018 When available members may request an aerotow launch from the duty Instructor or duty pilot. The duty instructor/pilot or nominee should organise the safe operation of the aerotow. If winch launching is also taking place the glider to be aerotowed should be placed on the downwind side of the winch launch line. The aerotow should be safely slotted in with the winch launching in order to give minimal delays. Launching is only to take place when the duty pilot or qualified nominee wearing the florescent coat is in position to clearly observe all elements of the launch. Three people are required for each launch; Wingtip runner, Launch Marshal and Log Keeper. The tasks should either be performed by trained personnel or personnel under direct training by suitably qualified members, however the Launch Marshal must be a Solo Pilot. Wingtip runner is normally to HOLD THE DOWNWIND WINGTIP. Establish with the pilot all checks are completed by asking, Canopy and brakes closed and locked and only after receiving confirmation from the pilot, attach the cable. The typical sequence of events is as follows. 1. Tug inline with the glider and towrope attached. 2. Launch Marshal behind left wing and to one side of the tail establishes that there are no potential conflicts with the launch and the immediate vicinity is clear to launch the glider. 3. They then verbally communicate to all that all is clear above and behind before giving the up slack signal to the log keeper and verbally communicates to all take up slack. 4. The Log Keeper relays Golf Echo Foxtrot take up slack to the Tug with the Air band radio. 5. When rope is taut the launch marshal gives signals to the log keeper all out and verbally communicates to all all out 6. The Log Keeper relays the message Golf Echo Foxtrot all out all out to the Tug with the Air band radio. 7. The wing tip runner should run with the tip until aileron control is established During the launch the area should be constantly scanned for any potential problems and the launch STOPPED if any are identified. Any member may stop the launch. Aerotow Launch Procedure Appedix C 23 of 43

24 GROUND HANDLING OF GLIDERS Packing / Unpacking the Hangar DARLTON GLIDING CLUB OPERATIONS MANUAL 2018 No aircraft or equipment will be moved in the hanger unless a responsible solo pilot is present. One person is to take charge. Whenever gliders are being moved in a confined space, i.e. hanger area, observers are to be positioned to prevent the glider hitting any obstruction. Gliders and vehicles must be in a clean condition before being put into the hangar. In the hangar gliders should have canopy covers in place and batteries disconnected. TAIL DOLLIES REMOVED Glider Parking Tail wheels or dollies must be removed to prevent the glider weathercocking. Gliders are not to be left unattended without being properly secured. Light constructed gliders (Normally all wood and fabric aircraft) In light wind conditions it will be sufficient to park the glider cross-wind with the into wind wing tip held down by tyres and a tyre placed at the side of the tail skid to prevent the glider weather cocking. In stronger wind conditions, the amount of weights will have to be increased. However, the weights should not be concentrated in one position as this may cause damage to the structure. If possible (depending on glider design) there should be a tyre under the front skid, otherwise the tyres at the tail are ineffective. Tyres or weights are never to be placed in such a manner as to cause damage to the fabric covered areas. Tyres should be placed on the wing tip so that if the glider weathercocks for any reason the tyres will move with it, i.e. they should not rest partially on the ground. Heavy constructed gliders (Normally glass aircraft) In most wind conditions it will be sufficient to park the glider cross wind with the down wind wing tip on the ground. All tail dollies must be removed. Gliders left unattended on the launch grid should have their tail dollies removed and canopies closed. Ground Towing and Glider Retrieve Members driving towing vehicles i.e. tractor, cars, 4x4 etc must be fully trained by a solo pilot. Towing vehicles, when leaving the launch point to retrieve a glider must, as far as is possible, go behind the launch grid, cross the airfield following a line at 90 degrees to the landing line of the glider. They should then follow this landing line directly to the glider. Ensure the towrope will release immediately the release knob is pulled. To allow the towrope to back release in case of overrun, the towrope should be attached to the winch launch hook and not the aerotow hook. 24 of 43

25 The glider should if possible be turned so the tail is down wind and moved as it is turned so not to put a rut in the grass. If being towed with the wind directly behind the rudder must be prevented from swinging. When towing gliders by vehicle the towrope length should be at least 3/4 the wingspan of the glider. When towing into wind, the glider is normally to be manned at the wingtip and cockpit area. When towing downwind one Person is to be stationed at the tail of the glider to help prevent the glider tail being lifted by the wind or over-running the tow vehicle. When towing in strong down-wind conditions, control surfaces should be prevented from slamming by a person strapped in the cockpit. Where applicable towing vehicles must have their window open and radio off. The towrope must not be released by hand through the clear view. If possible the rope should be back released. If it is necessary to use the release knob the glider must be brought to a stop before the canopy is opened. Gliders are not to be towed downhill and onto the launch grid without a member being stationed in front of the glider to stop it from over running. 25 of 43

26 DAILY INSPECTIONS Gliders DARLTON GLIDING CLUB OPERATIONS MANUAL 2018 Members must be approved to carry out Daily Inspections of glider types and their Log Book endorsed to that effect, by an Instructor or inspector. Whilst DI' ing a glider, other additional items to check are Batteries should be checked or changed. Glider cleaned and wings taped Canopy cleaned (do not use a dry cloth for this) Audible variometer functioning NOTE all club gliders must have a functioning audible variometer For all single seat club gliders ensure loggers are functioning. (Red L.E.D flashing) Parachute placed in cockpit Cable release checks carried out Glider towed to the launch point and parked safely. Please take care as damage can easily occur whilst DI'ing gliders. Visual inspection is normally adequate for checking wings and fuselage for any damage. Cleanliness of the glider inside and out is part of the DI routine ANY faults or queries on any glider must be brought to the attention of the duty instructor immediately and rectified before flying unless spares are required and there is no detriment to the safe operation of the aircraft. Any work carried out as part of this rectification must be entered into the DI book and glider technical log. NOTE - Any person performing a DI should not be disturbed or interrupted. Rigging Whenever a glider is rigged - Private or Club - an independent rig check by a third party must be made and the DI book countersigned. Instructors to make random checks of D.I books at the launch point. Vehicles All vehicles must be inspected before use every day. As a minimum fuel, oil, water and tyres must be checked All vehicles must be kept clean and tidy Winch The winch must be inspected before use every day for fuel, oil water and tyres. A record of this check is to be made in the winch DI book. Winch cables must be inspected before use every day by slowly towing out to the intended launch point to allow the examination of individual knots and any kinks in the cable. Appropriate action should then be taken. Guillotines are to be tested by firing with a piece of wood between the blades every 2 months. Annually the check is to be carried out with a double strand of cable between the blades. These checks are to be recorded as such into the winch DI book. 26 of 43

27 FLYING REGULATIONS Approval to fly DARLTON GLIDING CLUB OPERATIONS MANUAL 2018 ALL Solo pilots below Silver 'C' standard MUST get clearance from the duty instructor or other full rated or assistant rated instructor before their first flight of each day and before subsequent flights if conditions have changed. Pilots of any standard who fly infrequently, must also gain such approval. Currency Winch Launching Instructing Solo Full Cat and Asst cat instructors with no limitations to ratings Restricted Asst Cats & Basic Instructors Silver & above with >300 hrs All other members not mentioned above 6 weeks (can regain currency by solo flight or check flight) 4 weeks (Rear seat currency check flight required) N/A N/A 8 weeks As per experience level 6 Weeks 4 weeks Aerotow Instructing Solo Full Cat and Asst cat instructors with no limitations to ratings Self-discretion that you are current enough to recover from student induced divergent oscillations 8 weeks Restricted Asst Cats & Basic Instructors Silver & above with >300 hrs All other members not mentioned above 4 weeks (Rear seat currency check flight required) N/A N/A As per experience level 6 Weeks 4 weeks *Currency required for each launch method If out of currency then a check flight with an instructor, or the personal permission of a Full Rated Instructor or the CFI to fly, signed to that effect in logbook, must be gained prior to flight. Cross country currency Before going cross-country pilots must be in current flying practise in the aircraft plus have had field landing checks within the previous 12 months. If newly converted to the aircraft they need to have completed 10 landings monitored by a full category instructor. CURRENCY IN ONE AREA DOES NOT ALLOW CURRENCY IN ANOTHER. HONESTY AND INTEGRITY IS PARAMOUNT IN POLICING THIS SYSTEM. IT IS THE PILOT S RESPONSIBILITY TO PRESENT THEMSELVES FOR CHECK FLIGHTS WHEN DUE. ON NO ACCOUNT WILL FLYING OUTSIDE THESE PARAMETERS BE CONDONED. 27 of 43

28 Check flights DARLTON GLIDING CLUB OPERATIONS MANUAL 2018 ANNUAL FLYING CHECKS ARE MANDATORY FOR ALL SOLO PILOTS. Appendix D (Annual check form) must be completed by all pilots. The content of these checks will be decided by the C.F.I. any member who has not completed their checks and handed the form to the CFI will on any day be expected to complete these checks as and when a dual aircraft becomes available. Check flights are mandatory for any pilot whose currency has lapsed Note: - Any authorisation or currency checks are only valid after your log book has been signed by the checking instructor. Periodic cable break checks are recommended, pilots must have had at least 1 actual or simulated cable brake in the preceding 6 months, if not then they are to report the fact to the duty instructor. Pre-season field landing checks are mandatory for all pilots prior to contemplating cross country flying. The members logbook must be signed by checking instructor. Any Heavy Landing must be reported immediately to the Duty instructor even if there is no sign of visible damage. Mutual Flying Mutual flying is not permitted at DGC. One pilot must always be a rated instructor. If the P1 is only BI rated then they must do the entire launch and landing and all flying below 500 feet. (CFI may authorise individual pilots for cross-country training) Flying List This establishes the order of priority of allocation of launch cables. All members are responsible for ensuring their name is on the list and if declaring a task and/or booking a club aircraft, indicate so on the flying list. The type of aircraft the member wishes to fly that day must be declared on the flying list. Allocation of club aircraft for declared tasks will be at the discretion of the duty instructor but normally in order of the flying list on a first come basis. The Janus may be pre booked for cross country training by an approved cross country instructor and pupil in advance. If a member does not wish to fly when their turn comes, he/she may defer their place on the flying list. Trainees and people on check flights will normally be allowed up to three launches at a time, at the discretion of the Duty Instructor. For solo pilots launches can be taken in two s in both dual and single seater gliders unless the duty instructor states otherwise. Duration flights of over 20 minutes will constitute 2 launches. After flying, the member may, if they wish to fly again, place their name on the bottom of the flying list. 28 of 43

29 Allocation of club training aircraft. On any flying day Trial lesson flights and courses should be allocated an instructor as soon as possible after arrival for briefing and their flights fitted into the flying list in the most expeditious way as decided by the duty instructor. Soaring All local soaring (this means within straight gliding range of the airfield) must be completed by re-joining the circuit in the high key position by a minimum of 800. On soarable days, at the discretion of the duty instructor or duty pilot, launching priority may be given to: - 1) TEST AND BADGE ATTEMPTS 2) DECLARED TASKS. 3) ADVANCED SOARING TRAINING Local soaring flights in club aircraft are normally to be limited to the following limits: K13/Puchacz Training: K13/Puchacz Solo: Astir: Discus: Janus: 60 minutes. 35 minutes. 60 minutes. 90 minutes. 120 minutes. The duty instructor or duty pilot depending on daily requirements may vary these limits. Longer flights may be authorised for FAI badge flights as required. 1 st Solo Flight Before a member is allowed to solo the following must be completed to BGA Solo Certificate requirements. 1) Reached the minimum age of 14 2) Copy of current medical certificate lodged with CFI 3) Copy of current medical certificate fixed in members log book 4) Completed all necessary pre solo training, exercises signed off on training record card and in members log book 5) Had field landing appreciation flight. Ideally in motor glider. 6) Passed the pre-solo theory paper on Air Law, Collision avoidance rules and protocols, Local airspace considerations 7) Have a copy of BGA gliding certificate and solo endorsement application form. 8) A photocopy of the students training record card placed in the students training file. 9) Have signed the Ops Manual It is the responsibility of the student and supervising instructor to ensure all the above are completed before the student is sent solo. On completion the supervising instructor should assist the student to complete the A Badge Application form. 29 of 43

30 Type conversions DARLTON GLIDING CLUB OPERATIONS MANUAL 2018 Conversions may be authorised by any Full cat instructor provided the pilot has the minimum qualifications listed below. The pilot must also be current and considered competent by the Duty Instructor. Conversion briefing is to be given by a Full Rated instructor current & experienced on type, If No instructor is current & experienced on type the briefing can be given by a pilot current & experienced overseen by a full cat instructor. Minimum Requirements for Solo Conversion: - K13/Puchacz To have read aircraft notes, have the necessary ability as authorised by duty instructor. Astir Discus Janus 10 Solos in K13/Puchacz at least 5 in Puchacz. Have read the aircrafts pilots notes. Conversion card completed and log book signed by instructor 20 hours solo, bronze C, briefing and Satisfactory Check Flights by an instructor current on type, have read the aircrafts pilots notes. Conversion card completed and log book signed by instructor 25 hours solo, Cross country endorsement, Satisfactory Check Flights by CFI (or full rated instructor authorised by CFI), log book endorsed and have read the aircrafts pilots notes. Conversion card completed and log book signed by instructor Private Gliders Requirements to fly to be not less than those specified by insurers. The approval of the CFI must be gained and, for first flights, the Duty Instructor must also be consulted. Discretion The CFI may permit variations of above to take into account differing levels of experience. CIRCUITS & CIRCUIT RESTRICTIONS The duty instructor will nominate either a RH or a LH circuits for each day. Pilots should plan to make this the standard circuit but if they get out of position then the opposite circuit may be flown. If the opposite circuit is being flown, then if the glider has a serviceable radio and the pilot is able without detriment to safety downwind radios call should be made to Darlton base on 130.1KHz. General No thermal (360 o ) turns are permitted once past the Low Key Point (if too high open out the circuit or use the air brakes on base leg). The turn onto final approach must be completed with a minimum of 300 ft AGL; a straight-in approach is to be made from this point. The landing must not be in line with any obstructions. 30 of 43

31 Approach and landing DARLTON GLIDING CLUB OPERATIONS MANUAL 2018 A safe undershoot area must be allowed for at all times. Hangar Flights All hanger flights must be with the authorisation of the duty instructor. Competition Finishes The minimum height outside the airfield boundary for a competition Finish is 500 ft AGL. Within the airfield boundary the minimum height and approach path is as per SERA & ANO regulations Limitations and Characteristics of Gliders It is the responsibility of the pilot of any glider or motor glider, before flight, to acquaint himself with and comply with any limitations imposed on the aircraft. They must also check the operation of all controls and ensure that they are familiar with its flight characteristics. The pilot is responsible for ensuring that the glider is flown within its permissible centre of gravity range and that any ballast used is properly secured. The BGA recommendation that the minimum cockpit weight is to be exceeded by 15 kg (33lbs) during type conversion and for inexperienced pilots shall be observed. Parachutes Where it is practical to do so parachutes should be worn on all flights. Parachutes should be inspected and repacked according to the manufacturers recommendation Parachutes should be kept clean and dry at all times they should never be put on the ground. If a parachute has become damp it should be declared unserviceable and sent for repacking Parachutes should be stored in a clean, dry place. It is the responsibility of the safety officer to ensure club parachutes are re-packed at least annually and maintain a log to this effect. Audible Variometers It is a recommended practice for all gliders to have a functioning audible variometer and all club gliders must therefore have a functioning audible variometer before that particular glider can fly. This requirement is included in the DI checks. GPS and other equipment Handheld GPS, Camera and Radio MUST be mounted in the glider and NOT carried loose. P2 may carry a camera provided it is physically attached to them. Other Hats must conform to BGA regulations, i.e. not obstruct vision and lookout. 31 of 43